U.S. patent application number 14/283202 was filed with the patent office on 2014-11-27 for shared cybernetics using gestures.
The applicant listed for this patent is Kelsey MacKenzie Stout. Invention is credited to Kelsey MacKenzie Stout.
Application Number | 20140350333 14/283202 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51935792 |
Filed Date | 2014-11-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140350333 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Stout; Kelsey MacKenzie |
November 27, 2014 |
SHARED CYBERNETICS USING GESTURES
Abstract
A vibrator sex toy is provided with touch-based sensors for an
ergonomic in-situ method of controlling the operation and intensity
of the vibrator. The vibrator sex toy has an internal end, an
external end and a middle staging section. The staging section
includes a control circuit and batteries. The internal end includes
electric vibrator motors connected to the control circuit by wires.
The external end includes ergonomically placed touch sensors that
behave like variable resistors. The touch sensors respond to
natural human gestures such as grasping, stretching, compressing
and bending the external end of the sex toy with changes in
resistance. The touch sensors are connected to the control circuit
by wires and act as potentiometers in the control path of the
vibrator motors. The user is able to vary the sensations from the
motors intuitively and in-situ by manipulating the external end or
applying it to a partner.
Inventors: |
Stout; Kelsey MacKenzie;
(Bakersfield, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Stout; Kelsey MacKenzie |
Bakersfield |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
51935792 |
Appl. No.: |
14/283202 |
Filed: |
May 20, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13040279 |
Mar 4, 2011 |
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14283202 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
600/38 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61H 2201/5061 20130101;
A61H 2201/5002 20130101; A61H 19/44 20130101; A61H 23/0263
20130101; A61H 19/34 20130101; A61H 2201/5023 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
600/38 |
International
Class: |
A61H 19/00 20060101
A61H019/00; A61H 23/02 20060101 A61H023/02 |
Claims
1. An apparatus comprising: a housing of flexible material, said
housing comprising an internal extremity having a proximo-distal
axis and an external extremity having a proximo-distal axis; at
least a first sensor, connected to said control circuit by a first
lead, that produces at least a sensor output control signal in
response to at least an in-situ gesture, said first sensor having a
lengthwise axis, said first sensor being disposed such that the
lengthwise axis of said first sensor is parallel to the
proximo-distal axis of one said extremity; a control circuit
configured to recognize at least a sensor output control signal and
produce at least a motor input control signal in response; and at
least a motor, wherein the speed of said motor varies in response
to said motor input control signal, wherein said apparatus is a sex
toy.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, said external extremity having a
length of at least 100 centimeters.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said in-situ gesture is taken
from the group consisting of: shaking, increasing the degree of
bend along the proximo-distal axis of an extremity, decreasing the
degree of bend along the proximo-distal axis of an extremity,
stretching parallel to the proximo-distal axis of an extremity,
performing compression parallel to the proximo-distal axis of an
extremity, and performing a hip-press.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said first sensor is taken
from the group comprising: a set of at least two force sensors
disposed in a linear array parallel to the proximo-distal axis of
one of said extremities; a bend sensor; a stretch sensor; and a
clench sensor.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, also comprising: a second sensor,
connected to said control circuit by a second lead, that produces a
second control signal in response to at least an in-situ gesture,
said second sensor having a lengthwise axis, said second sensor
being disposed such that the lengthwise axis of said second sensor
is parallel to the proximo-distal axis of one said extremity.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, also comprising: A non-transitory
computer-readable medium having computer-executable instructions
for performing steps, comprising: receiving a plurality of input
control signals from said at least a sensor, said plurality of
input control signals having characteristics; determining, in
response to the characteristics of said plurality of input control
signals, an output control signal; and communicating said output
control signal to said at least a motor.
7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the characteristics of a
plurality of input control signals are associated with one of the
group comprising: velocity of an in-situ gesture, and the rate at
which a series of in-situ gestures is performed.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said control circuit is
configured to produce a motor pattern comprising a series of motor
input control signals, each motor input control signal
corresponding to a peak or a trough, each peak or trough having a
period and an amplitude, and wherein a given motor pattern is
characterised by a peak-to-trough amplitude ratio and a
peak-to-trough period ratio.
9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein said first sensor is a bend
sensor having a trigger-point sensor output voltage, wherein a
sensor output control signal having a voltage higher than the
trigger-point sensor output voltage causes said control circuit to
produce a first motor pattern, and a sensor output control signal
having a voltage lower than the trigger-point sensor output voltage
causes said control circuit to produce a second motor pattern.
10. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein a motor pattern may be varied
in intensity by varying its average amplitude or by varying its
average period, wherein a first in-situ gesture is associated with
outputting a motor pattern and a second in-situ gesture is
associated with varying the intensity of a motor pattern.
11. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a second motor,
wherein an in-situ gesture is associated with motor panning.
12. The apparatus of claims 10 and 11, further comprising a
non-transitory computer-readable medium that stores
computer-executable instructions causing said control circuit to
produce at least a motor input control signal based on an
association between an in-situ gesture and a motor response,
wherein said association is taken from the group comprising: a bend
gesture associated with motor panning; a straighten gesture
associated with motor panning; a stretch gesture associated with
varying the intensity of a motor; a compress gesture associated
with varying the intensity of a motor pattern; a grasp-far gesture
associated with a heavy motor pattern in a forward motor; a
grasp-near gesture associated with a heavy motor pattern in a
rearward motor; a grasp-far gesture associated with a light motor
pattern in a rearward motor; a grasp-near gesture associated with a
light motor pattern in a forward motor; a hip press gesture
associated with a heavy motor pattern in a forward motor; a hip
press gesture associated with a heavy motor pattern in a rearward
motor; a clench gesture gesture associated with a a heavy motor
pattern in a forward motor; a clench gesture gesture associated
with a a heavy motor pattern in a rearward motor; an unclench
gesture associated with a light motor pattern in a forward motor;
an unclench gesture associated with a light motor pattern in a
rearward motor.
13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said first sensor is a bend
sensor disposed such that its rest state is partially bent, such
that increasing the degree of bend of said first sensor produces a
first sensor output control signal having characteristics, and such
that decreasing the degree of bend of said first sensor produces a
second sensor output control signal having different
characteristics.
14. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a staging section
shaped so as to facilitate wearing of the apparatus using a
harness.
15. An apparatus comprising: a housing of flexible material, said
housing comprising an internal extremity having a proximo-distal
axis and an external extremity having a proximo-distal axis; a
control circuit configured to generate a multiple-frequency
electrode output signal, recognize a multiple-frequency electrode
return signal, and to produce at least a motor input control signal
in response; at least a first electrode, connected to said control
circuit by a first lead, configured to conduct a multiple-frequency
electrode output signal, and to conduct a multiple-frequency
electrode return signal in response to at least an in-situ gesture,
said first electrode being disposed on or within the flexible
material of one said extremity; and at least a motor, wherein the
speed of said motor varies in response to said motor input control
signal, wherein said apparatus is a sex toy.
16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein said in-situ gesture is
taken from the group consisting of: encircle far, encircle drag
toward, encircle near, encircle drag away, double encircle far,
double encircle drag toward, split encircle, split encircle drag
toward, double encircle near, double encircle drag away, split
encircle drag away, and no gesture
17. The apparatus of claim 15, further comprising a non-transitory
computer-readable medium that stores computer-executable
instructions causing said control circuit to produce at least a
motor input control signal based on an association between an
in-situ gesture and a motor response, wherein said association is
taken from the group comprising: an encircle far gesture associated
with a light motor pattern; an encircle far gesture associated with
varying the intensity of a forward motor; an encircle drag toward
gesture associated with increasing the intensity of a motor; an
encircle drag toward gesture associated with rearward motor
panning; an encircle near gesture associated with a heavy motor
pattern; an encircle near gesture associated with varying the
intensity of a rearward motor; an encircle drag away gesture
associated with decreasing the intensity of a motor; an encircle
drag away gesture associated with forward motor panning; a double
encircle far gesture associated with a motor pattern heavier than a
motor pattern associated with encircle far; a double encircle far
gesture associated with varying the intensity of a forward motor; a
double encircle drag toward gesture associated with increasing the
intensity of a motor; a double encircle drag toward gesture
associated with rearward motor panning; a double encircle drag
toward gesture associated with a motor pattern in a forward motor
that is heavier than a motor pattern in a forward motor associated
with encircle drag toward; a split encircle gesture associated with
setting a forward and rearward motor to the same motor pattern; a
split encircle gesture associated with varying the intensity of one
or more motors; a split encircle drag toward gesture associated
with increasing the intensity of a motor; a split encircle drag
toward gesture associated with rearward motor panning; a split
encircle drag toward gesture associated with a motor pattern in a
rearward motor that is heavier than a motor pattern in a rearward
motor associated with encircle drag toward a double encircle near
gesture associated with a motor pattern heavier than the motor
pattern of encircle near; a double encircle near gesture associated
with varying the intensity of a rearward motor; a double encircle
drag away gesture associated with decreasing the intensity of a
motor; a double encircle drag away gesture associated with forward
motor panning; a double encircle drag away gesture associated with
a heavy motor pattern in a rearward motor; a split encircle drag
away gesture associated with decreasing the intensity of a motor; a
split encircle drag away gesture associated with forward motor
panning; a split encircle drag away gesture associated with a heavy
motor pattern in a forward motor; and sensing no gesture associated
with a light motor pattern.
18. The apparatus of claim 15, further comprising a sensor other
than said first electrode, connected to said control circuit by a
second lead, that produces a sensor output control signal in
response to at least an in-situ gesture, said sensor having a
lengthwise axis, said second sensor being disposed such that the
lengthwise axis of said second sensor is parallel to the
proximo-distal axis of one said extremity, said sensor being taken
from the group comprising: a bend sensor; a stretch sensor; and a
clench sensor.
19. The apparatus of claim 15, said flexible material being
selected for favorable low-amperage conductivity
characteristics.
20. A method comprising: sending, in response to at least an
in-situ gesture, a series of sensor output control signals to a
control circuit from a sensor, said sensor having a proximo-distal
axis, said sensor being situated on or within a first extremity of
a sex toy having two extremities, said first extremity having a
proximo-distal axis, said sensor being disposed such that the
proximo-distal axis of said sensor is parallel to the
proximo-distal axis of said first extremity; recognizing, in said
control circuit, characteristics of said series of sensor output
control signals; determining, in response to said characteristics,
an output motor control signal; and sending said output motor
control signal to a motor.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of, and claims
priority under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.120 from, nonprovisional U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/040,279 entitled "Cybernetic Vibrator With
Sensors For Natural Gesture Controls," filed on Mar. 4, 2011, the
subject matter of which is incorporated herein by reference.
application Ser. No. 13/040,279, in turn, claims priority under 35
U.S.C. .sctn.119(e) from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
61/310,687, entitled "Cybernetic Vibrator With Sensors For Natural
Gesture Controls", filed Mar. 4, 2010, which is incorporated by
reference for all purposes.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates generally to sex toys. More
particularly, the present invention relates to a sex toy with
in-situ hands-free controls.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
[0003] Vibrating sex toys, also known as "vibrators", are typically
equipped with fader-style controls that allow a user to vary the
intensity of an electric vibrator motor, thereby altering the
sensations produced by the toy. Unfortunately, fader-type controls
in a vibrator sex toy are not optimal because they are distractions
from the very sensations they control. A more natural and ergonomic
method of controlling a vibrator sex toy in-situ is sought.
[0004] Additionally, a sex toy is often employed by a user in
conjunction with a partner. The user may apply the sex toy with a
phallic or other shape to the partner. One form of such a sex toy
that is employed with a partner is the "double-ended dildo", which
allows a female user to mimic having a phallus to apply to a
partner. Such a double-ended dildo may include vibrating motors,
but, again, a fader-type control is often not useable with this
form of sex toy. A fader-type control in a double-ended dildo form
of sex toy is awkward and distracts from the ability to mimic
having a phallus. A method of controlling this form of vibrator sex
toy that simultaneously employs input by both the user and the
user's partner by a user is sought,
SUMMARY
[0005] A vibrator sex toy is provided with touch-based sensors for
an ergonomic method of controlling the operation and intensity of
the vibrator using natural gestures. The vibrator sex toy has at
least an internal end and an external end, and usually a middle
staging section. The internal end and external end are each
substantially phallic in shape and each comprise a lengthwise axis.
Each lengthwise axis comprises a proximal end and a distal end,
with the proximal end of each axis pointed towards the point at
which the internal end and the external end meet, or toward the
staging section.
[0006] The staging section includes an control circuit and
batteries. The internal end includes electric vibrator motors
connected to the control circuit by wires. The external end
includes ergonomically placed touch sensors that behave like
variable resistors. In embodiments where a staging section is not
used, the control circuit and battery may instead be in either
end
[0007] The described internal end, external end and staging section
are portions of a silicone housing, with electrical components
deployed between layers of silicone. Alternatively, the electrical
components may be deployed in the interior of a hollow silicone
housing. The housing may also be constructed of materials other
than silicone.
[0008] The touch sensors may be of known types, such as pressure
sensors, bend sensors, stretch sensors, compression sensors,
temperature sensors, humidity sensors, galvanic skin sensors,
photoresistors, accelerometers or other types of sensors. Electrode
sensors that sense changes in return amplitude across a range of
frequencies are also described that allow detection of a variety of
complex touches by hands or other parts of the body.
[0009] Because they are deployed just at or under the surface of
the silicone housing, natural human gestures such as grasping,
stretching, squeezing and bending the external end of the sex toy
activate the embedded sensors. The embedded sensors respond to
activation with a change in resistance to current flowing through
the sensors via electrical leads. This change in resistance allows
the sensors to function as variable resistors in the control path
of the one or more vibrator motors.
[0010] The touch sensors are connected to the control circuit in
the staging section by electrical leads. One or more sensors may be
connected in series or in parallel in the control path of a motor
such that input from one or more sensors changes the frequency or
rhythm of a vibrator motor. Thus, touch and movement by the user
and the user's partner dynamically varies the behavior of the
vibrator motors in the course of manipulating the external end of
the toy or applying it to a partner. Interrupting the use of the
toy in order to employ a fader-style control is made
unnecessary.
[0011] Other methods and structures are described in the detailed
description below. This summary does not purport to define the
invention. The invention is defined by the claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1 (Prior Art) is a simplified side view of a
double-ended dildo type sex toy as known in the prior art.
[0013] FIG. 2 (Prior Art) is a simplified side view of a
double-ended dildo type sex toy showing a variation known in the
prior art in which at least one extremity is curved such that the
dorsal surface of the extremity has a concave curvature and the
ventral surface has a convex curvature.
[0014] FIG. 3 (Prior Art) illustrates the case wherein the angle
between the extremities is 180.degree..
[0015] FIG. 4 is a side view of an embodiment of a cybernetic
vibrator device with ergonomic sensor-based controls, in accordance
with one novel aspect.
[0016] FIG. 5 is a side view of a second embodiment of a cybernetic
vibrator device with reversed ergonomic sensor-based controls, in
accordance with another novel aspect.
[0017] FIG. 6 is an example circuit diagram showing a force sensor
13 in the control path of a DC vibrator motor 5.
[0018] FIG. 7 is a graph showing the voltage curve through a touch
sensor as touch pressure is changed.
[0019] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the changes in actuated motor
operation in accordance with natural gestures by the user and
user's partner.
[0020] FIG. 9 is a graph illustrating period ratios in motor
patterns.
[0021] FIG. 10 is a graph illustrating variations in average period
within a motor pattern.
[0022] FIG. 11 is a graph illustrating amplitude ratios in motor
patterns.
[0023] FIG. 12 is a graph illustrating variations in average
amplitude within a motor pattern.
[0024] FIG. 13 is a graph illustrating a simultaneous shift in
motor pattern and average amplitude.
[0025] FIG. 14 is a graph illustrating a simultaneous shift in
motor pattern and average period.
[0026] FIG. 15 is a graph illustrating a gradual increase in
average amplitude within a motor pattern.
[0027] FIG. 16 is a graph illustrating a motor response that varies
average amplitude for some degrees of sensor activation and
switches motor pattern at an inflection point of sensor
activation.
[0028] FIG. 17 is a graph illustrating a motor response that varies
average amplitude for some degrees of sensor activation and
switches motor pattern at an inflection point of sensor
activation.
[0029] FIG. 18A illustrates a bend sensor as it is maximally bent
while disposed longitudinally within the external end of an
embodiment of the device.
[0030] FIG. 18B portrays the bend sensor as it is at a rest shape,
partially bent, while disposed longitudinally within the external
end of an embodiment of the device.
[0031] FIG. 18C portrays the bend sensor in an unbent, or
straightened, shape, having been flexed from the partially bent
rest shape.
[0032] FIG. 19A illustrates a stretch sensor at the full stretch
that the control circuit is configured to measure.
[0033] FIG. 19B illustrates a stretch sensor at a rest shape,
partially stretched, while disposed longitudinally within the
external end of an embodiment of the device.
[0034] FIG. 19C illustrates a stretch sensor at the minimum stretch
that the control circuit is configured to measure.
[0035] FIG. 20 is a table illustrating associations between sensor
activations and motor responses in an embodiment of the device.
[0036] FIG. 21 (Prior Art) is a graph showing example
multiple-frequency sensing response curves for various touches as
sensed using multiple-frequency capacitive sensing.
[0037] FIG. 22 illustrates an embodiment of the invention using a
multiple-frequency touch sensing electrode.
[0038] FIG. 23 illustrates ventral and dorsal placement of a
multiple-frequency touch sensing electrode.
[0039] FIG. 24 illustrates a basic one-finger touch gesture.
[0040] FIG. 25 illustrates a static two-finger pinch gesture.
[0041] FIG. 26 is a stylized illustration of a hand performing a
one-fingered draw toward gesture.
[0042] FIG. 27 is a stylized illustration of a hand performing a
one-fingered draw away gesture.
[0043] FIG. 28 illustrates an encircle far gesture.
[0044] FIG. 29 illustrates an encircle drag toward gesture.
[0045] FIG. 30 illustrates an encircle near gesture.
[0046] FIG. 31 illustrates an encircle drag away gesture.
[0047] FIG. 32 illustrates a double encircle far gesture.
[0048] FIG. 33 illustrates a double encircle drag toward
gesture.
[0049] FIG. 34 illustrates a split encircle gesture.
[0050] FIG. 35 illustrates a split encircle drag toward
gesture.
[0051] FIG. 36 illustrates a double encircle near gesture.
[0052] FIG. 37 illustrates a double encircle drag away gesture.
[0053] FIG. 38 illustrates a split encircle drag away gesture.
[0054] FIG. 39 is a table illustrating associations between sensor
activations and motor responses in another embodiment of the
device.
DESCRIPTION OF PRIOR ART
[0055] FIG. 1 (Prior Art) is a simplified side view of a
double-ended dildo type sex toy as known in the prior art. It has
two extremities, shown as an Internal End and an External End, with
a Midsection where the two extremities meet.
[0056] Each of the two extremities is generally phallic in shape,
such shape being characterized for commercial purposes as being 100
cm or more in length. Each of the two extremities has a
Proximo-Distal Axis, with the proximal end of the axis terminating
at the Midsection and the distal end of the axis terminating at the
generally rounded end of the extremity. Each extremity is
substantially cylindrical with a diameter less than half its
length.
[0057] Typically, the Internal End is held in place in the vagina
of a user of the device. Said Internal End is typically of lesser
length than the External End, such that the External End may be
easily held in a hand or penetrate a second user. To facilitate
such usage, the angle between the dorsal surface of the Internal
End and the dorsal surface of the External End is equal to or less
than 180.degree. and greater than 20.degree.. FIG. 1 (Prior Art)
shows the obtuse angled case, wherein the angle between the
extremities is between 90.degree. and 180.degree..
[0058] FIG. 2 (Prior Art) is a simplified side view of a
double-ended dildo type sex toy showing a variation known in the
prior art wherein at least one extremity is curved such that the
dorsal surface of the extrenity has a concave curvature and the
ventral surface has a convex curvature. In the illustrated example,
the substantially phallic in shape Internal End has such a
curvature. The Proximo-Distal Axis of the Internal End is therefore
also curved. The Internal End typically has a greater degree of
curve than the External End in such devices.
[0059] FIG. 2 (Prior Art) also shows the acute angled case, wherein
the angle between the extremities is between 20.degree. and
90.degree.. Further, FIG. 2 (Prior Art) illustrates that the
Midsection or either extremity may include a Flange portion that
facilitates the device being held in using a harness worn by a
user.
[0060] FIG. 3 (Prior Art) illustrates the case wherein the angle
between the extremities is 180.degree.. Further, FIG. 3 (Prior Art)
illustrates that the Midsection or either extremity may include an
indented area that facilitates the device being held in using a
harness worn by a user.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
[0061] FIG. 4 is a side view of an example cybernetic vibrator
device 1 with ergonomic sensor-based controls, in accordance with
one novel aspect. The device 1 is made of silicone, or other
flexible material such as "Cyberskin". The material of the device 1
is flexible, such that bend and stretch sensors embedded in the
materials can be flexed or stretched or compressed. The material of
the device 1 also ideally allows embedding of compression sensors
near the surface of the material.
[0062] The flexible material of the device 1 embodies aspects of
the double-ended device described above in regard to FIG. 1, FIG. 2
and FIG. 3. It has two extremities, shown as an internal end 2 and
an external end 3, with a midsection where the proximo-distal axis
of each extremity terminates. In the invention, the midsection is
referred to as the staging section 4.
[0063] Each of the two extremities is generally phallic in shape
and greater than 100 cm in length. Each extremity is substantially
cylindrical with a diameter less than 50 cm. The angle between the
dorsal surface of the internal end 2 and the dorsal surface of the
external end 3 is equal to or less than 180.degree. and greater
than 20.degree.. The staging section 4, illustrated as having a
diameter bulging to greater than that of external end 3,
facilitates wearing of the device using a support harness. Other
embodiments may have simpler cylindrical shapes without such a
bulge in the middle section.
[0064] In the illustrated example, the internal end 2 includes a
first electric vibrator motor 5 connected by a pair of electrical
leads 6 to a control circuit 7 housed in the staging section 4. A
second example vibrator motor 9 connected to the control circuit 7
by a pair of electrical leads 10 is also pictured. Note that, in
other embodiments, the example motors may perform functions other
than vibration, such as altering the shape of the silicone body of
the device 1. Motors in this example are voltage controlled
motors.
[0065] A third example vibrator motor 11 is housed in the staging
section 4 of the device 1 and connected to the control circuit 7 by
a pair of electrical leads 12. The control circuit 7 in the staging
section 4 is powered by one or more batteries 8. The control
circuit 4 supplies power to the example motors 5 9 and 11 and
controls the voltages of the power supplied to each motor.
Staging Section
[0066] Housed in the staging section 4 near the surface of the
silicone material is a first fore sensor 13, such as a force
sensing resistor. The first force sensor 13 is connected with the
control circuit by a pair of electrical leads 14. Note that such a
sensor may also have a third (ground) lead, which is not
illustrated. Via its pair of electrical leads 14, the first force
sensor 13 forms part of the control path of an example vibrating
motor. In the illustrated example, the first force sensor 13 is in
the control path of the first electric vibrator motor 5.
[0067] The resistance to current flowing through first force sensor
13 via leads 14 changes when force is applied to the sensor 13.
Thus, when pressure is applied to the surface of the staging
section 4 near the sensor 13, resistance in the control circuit for
first electric vibrator motor 5 is altered. The resistance change
in the control circuit produces a sensor output control signal,
such as a change in voltage, that controls the speed of electric
vibrator motor 5. Because the internal end 2 of the device 1 is
worn inserted into the vagina with the staging section 4 forward of
the pubic bone, pressure can be applied to first force sensor 13 by
pressing the hips forward against a partner or hard surface rather
than by a hand.
[0068] First electric vibrator motor 5 thus vibrates at varying
speeds in response to ergonomic input by the user or user's
partner. Such ergonomic input that obviates the need to employ
traditional fader, dial or button controls will be referred to
herein as in-situ gestures. In-situ gestures include actions taken
by the user or by the user's partner in the course of using a
device that can have a purpose beyond or in addition to the purpose
of controlling the electrical elements of the device. As examples,
users of the device may wish to change the location, shape, camber,
angle of attack of the device, or change their grip on the device.
In doing so, users will perform in-situ gestures such as bending,
grasping, squeezing, moving, and shaking the device, as well as
swiping a finger along the surface of an extremity of of the
device, stretching an extremity of the device longitudinally, and
compressing an extremity of the device longitudinally. Thus,
natural motions and gestures by users in the course of using the
device control the vibrations produced.
[0069] In-situ gestures do not have to be performed by hand. A user
could perform an in-situ gesture by applying pressure to the device
using, for instance, the pelvis. In-situ gestures here are
contrasted with and do not include controlling a device by
manipulating a traditional electrical control such as a fader,
slider, dial, button or switch.
[0070] More particularly, touches, gestures and patterns of touches
and gestures associated with handling and use of a double-ended sex
toy irrespective of any included electronic elements will be
referred to as shared toy gestures. Pressing the device against a
partner, bending, grasping, squeezing, or shaking an extremity of
the device, and stroking, stretching or compressing an extremity of
of the device longitudinally are categorized, in the context of
this disclosure as shared toy gestures where the device includes
two extremities, each extremity having a proximo-distal axis, with
the proximal end of the axis terminating at a midsection of the
device and the distal end of the axis terminating at the generally
rounded end of the extremity. Shared toy gestures can be considered
a sub-set of in-situ gestures.
Dorsal Surface
[0071] Second force sensor 15 is similarly housed in the external
end 3 near the dorsal surface of the silicone material. The second
force sensor 15 is connected with the control circuit by a pair of
electrical leads 16. Via its pair of electrical leads 16, the
second force sensor 15 forms part of the control path of an example
vibrating motor.
[0072] In the illustrated example, the second force sensor 15 is in
the control path of the second electric vibrator motor 9 and
pressure on the external end 3 of the device near second force
sensor 15 affects the voltage supplied to second electric vibrator
motor 9. Second electric vibrator motor 9 thus vibrates at varying
speeds due to varying pressures on the external end 3 of the device
caused by sexual activity without the need for manual input by the
user or the user's partner.
[0073] Third force sensor 17 is also housed in the external end 3
near the dorsal surface of the silicone material. The third force
sensor 17 is connected with the control circuit by a pair of
electrical leads 18. Via its pair of electrical leads 18, the third
force sensor 17 forms part of the control path of an example
vibrating motor.
[0074] In the illustrated example, the third force sensor 17 is in
the control path of the second electric vibrator motor 9. Third
force sensor 17 may be disposed in series or in parallel with
second force sensor 15 in this example. Pressure on the external
end 3 of the device 1 near third force sensor 17 affects the
voltage supplied to second electric vibrator motor 9. Second
electric vibrator motor 9 thus vibrates at varying speeds due to
varying pressures on the external end 3 of the device caused by
sexual activity without the need for manual input by the user or
the user's partner.
Ventral Surface
[0075] Fourth force sensor 19 is housed in the external end 3 near
the ventral surface of the silicone material. The fourth force
sensor 19 is connected with the control circuit by a pair of
electrical leads 20. Via its pair of electrical leads 20, the
fourth force sensor 19 forms part of the control path of an example
vibrating motor.
[0076] In the illustrated example, the fourth force sensor 19 is in
the control path of the third electric vibrator motor 11 and
pressure on the external end 3 of the device near fourth force
sensor 19 affects the voltage supplied to third electric vibrator
motor 11. Third electric vibrator motor 11 thus vibrates at varying
speeds due to varying pressures on the external end 3 of the device
caused by sexual activity without the need for manual input by the
user or the user's partner.
[0077] Fifth force sensor 21 is also housed in the external end 3
near the ventral surface of the silicone material. The fifth force
sensor 21 is connected with the control circuit by a pair of
electrical leads 22. Via its pair of electrical leads 22, the fifth
force sensor 21 forms part of the control path of an example
vibrating motor.
[0078] In the illustrated example, the fifth force sensor 21 is in
the control path of the third electric vibrator motor 11. Fifth
force sensor 21 may be disposed in series or in parallel with
fourth force sensor 19 in this example. Pressure on the external
end 3 of the device 1 near fifth force sensor 21 affects the
voltage supplied to second electric vibrator motor 11. Third
electric vibrator motor 11 thus vibrates at varying speeds due to
varying pressures on the external end 3 of the device caused,
generally, by in-situ gestures, and more particularly by shared toy
gestures, during sexual activity without interrupting activity to
operate traditional manual controls.
Bend Sensors
[0079] An example bend sensor 23 is disposed longitudinally within
the external end 3. The bend sensor 23 is connected with the
control circuit by a pair of electrical leads 24. Via its pair of
electrical leads 24, the bend sensor 23 forms part of the control
path of an example vibrating motor. In the illustrated example, the
first force sensor 13 is in the control path of the first electric
vibrator motor 5.
[0080] The resistance to current flowing through bend sensor 23 via
leads 24 changes when force is applied to the bend sensor 23. Thus,
when external end 3 is bent upwards or downwards, resistance in the
control circuit for first electric vibrator motor 5 is altered such
that the voltage supplied to first electric vibrator motor 5 is
also altered. Because the external end 3 of the device 1 is
flexible and undergoes constant changes in bend angle due to sexual
activity, first electric vibrator motor 5 vibrates at varying
speeds in response to the motion of the user or the user's partner
without the need for manual input.
Strain Sensor
[0081] An example strain sensor 25 (also known as a stretch sensor)
is disposed longitudinally within the external end 3. the strain
sensor 25 is connected with the control circuit by a pair of
electrical leads 26 and 27. Via its pair of electrical leads 26 and
27, the strain sensor 25 forms part of the control path of an
example vibrating motor. In the illustrated example, the strain
sensor 25 is in the control path of the third electric vibrator
motor 11.
[0082] The resistance to current flowing through strain sensor 25
via leads 26 and 27 changes when the strain sensor 23 is stretched
or compressed longitudinally. Thus, when external end 3 is
stretched or compressed longitudinally, resistance in the control
circuit for third electric vibrator motor 11 is altered such that
the voltage supplied to third electric vibrator motor 11 is also
altered. Because the external end 3 of the device 1 is flexible and
undergoes stretching and longitudinal compression due to sexual
activity, third electric vibrator motor 11 vibrates at varying
speeds in response to the in-situ gestures of the user or the
user's partner without the need for manual input.
Reversed Embodiment
[0083] FIG. 5 is a side view of a second embodiment of a cybernetic
vibrator device with reversed ergonomic sensor-based controls, in
accordance with another novel aspect. In FIG. 5, touch sensors and
their associated motors are disposed in either end of the device 1,
such that the user and the user's partner may have simultaneous
affects on touch sensors, each effectively controlling a vibrator
motor sensed by the other.
[0084] Device 1 includes an internal end 2, and external end 3 and
a (middle) staging section 3. The internal end 2 in the example
drawing is shaped to conform to a woman's genitalia, but may have
another shape. In the illustrated example, the internal end 2
includes a first force sensor 28 connected by a pair of electrical
leads 29 to a control circuit 7 housed in the staging section
4.
[0085] A first example vibrator motor 30 is housed in the external
end 3 of the device 1 and connected to the control circuit 7 by a
pair of electrical leads 31. The control circuit 7 in the staging
section 4 is powered by one or more batteries 8. The control
circuit 4 supplies power to the example motors 30 and 34 and
controls the voltages of the power supplied to each motor.
[0086] Via its pair of electrical leads 29, the first force sensor
28 forms part of the control path of first electric vibrator motor
5. Because the first force sensor 28 is located within the portion
of device 1 which is disposed within the vagina of the user,
muscular contractions of the vagina can be used to control first
electric vibrator motor 5. Thus, sensations perceived by the user's
partner vary in response to the natural motion of the user without
the need for manual input.
[0087] A second force sensor 32 disposed within the external end 3
of the device 1 similarly controls a second example vibrator motor
34. Second vibrator motor 34 is disposed such that its vibrations
are perceived by the user, and second force sensor 32 is disposed
such that it is activated by natural gestures by the user's
partner, as is explained above in regard to FIG. 1.
[0088] Note that various other arrangements of sensors and
sensor-controlled devices can be made. The sensors may be of known
types such as pressure sensors, bend sensors, stretch sensors,
strain sensors, compression sensors, temperature sensors, humidity
sensors, galvanic skin sensors, photoresistors, capacitive touch
sensors, resistive touch sensors, accelerometers or other types of
sensors. A stretch sensor, bend sensor, or other type of sensor can
be disposed in the internal end 2 of the device 1 for activation by
muscle contractions. Internal sensors can be connected so as to
control internal vibrator motors, and external sensors can be
connected so as to control external vibrator motors. Devices other
than vibrator motors, such as actuators and LED lights, can also be
controlled using the described methods. A microprocessor and memory
can be employed to produce device or motor input control signals in
response to various combinations or patterns of gestures applied to
the various sensors.
Example Circuit
[0089] FIG. 6 is an example circuit diagram showing a force sensor
13 in the control path of a DC vibrator motor 5. Force sensor 13 is
a force sensitive resistor (FSR) with, in this example, a
resistance at rest of 10,000 ohms. FSR 13 is disposed in a voltage
divider arrangement with a second resistor 41 which also has a
resistance of 10,000 ohms. Pressure is applied to the FSR 13 when
the user of the device or user's partner grasps, pulls or squeezes
the device 1 housing surface near where the FSR 13 is situated.
[0090] As increasing pressure from the grasping gesture is
translated through the flexible surface of the device 1 to the
force sensitive portion of the FSR 13 (indicated by the rounded
portion of item 13 in FIG. 6), the resistance of FSR 13 decreases
from its maximum of 10,000 ohms. This allows an increased level of
V.sub.IN to reach the op-amp 42 via the voltage divider formed by
FSR 13 and resistor 41. The output of the op-amp 42 can be output
to a microprocessor for voltage polling, or output to a pulse width
modulation (PWM) chip for driving the motor 5 via a MOSFET.
[0091] In this example, V.sub.IN is three volts provided by a pair
of 1.5 volt batteries 8. The resistance of example FSR 13 drops to
near zero at a force of one kilogram. FIG. 7 is a graph showing the
voltage curve through the voltage divider as pressure is changed.
Note that this curve will be affected by the placement of the
sensor and the material used for the device 1 housing. Fine tuning
of the voltage curve can be done by selecting a different
resistance for the second resistor 41.
[0092] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the changes in actuated motor
operation in accordance some example natural gestures by the user
and user's partner.
[0093] Note that though the touch sensors in the above examples can
be thought of as rheostats for controlling the voltage of power
supplied to DC motors, other embodiments may employ the touch
sensors as motor controls using different methods. Characteristics
of the sensors other than changes in resistance, such as instant
voltages, may be used. Touch sensors may be in the control path of
a DC motor that is controlled via pulse-width modulation (PWM). In
another embodiment, the device may employ a microprocessor that
polls the electrical characteristics of touch sensors and in
response controls DC motors according to programmed responses. Such
an embodiment employing a microprocessor may also include a digital
interface, such as a USB port, located in the staging section 4. A
user could employ the digital interface to modify the programmed
responses of the microprocessor.
[0094] Note also that the depicted shape of the device is not the
only possible shape. The device may, for example, take a
traditional cylindrical shape. The housing may be made entirely or
only partially of flexible material.
Motor Patterns
[0095] A sex toy device that uses a fader or other type of control
or sensor typically controls the amplitude of a motor in a
relationship that is directly or linearly proportional to the
controller setting. In contrast, it is explained here that motors
may be controlled in more complex ways.
[0096] Motors can be actuated in pulses and patterns of pulses. In
a pulse, a motor is actuated to a high amplitude, such as via PWM,
for a period of time known as a peak period. A series of such
pulses may be strung together to form a pattern. In between each
pulse is a trough, wherein the motor runs at a lower amplitude,
called a trough amplitude, for a period of time called a trough
period.
[0097] A motor pattern is thus characterised by two factors. The
first factor characterising a motor pattern is a ratio of peak
amplitude to trough amplitude, or amplitude ratio. The second
factor characterising a motor pattern is a ratio of peak period to
trough period, or period ratio. A motor pattern with a high
amplitude ratio is considered here to "heavier", in terms of feel,
than a motor pattern with a lower amplitude ratio. Similarly, a
motor pattern with a high period ratio is considered to be heavier
than a motor pattern with a lower period ratio. For the purposes of
this disclosure, a heavy motor pattern is one with an amplitude
ratio of 6/1 or higher or a period ratio of 3/1 or higher. A motor
pattern with an amplitude ratio lower than 6/1 and a period ratio
lower than 3/1 is a light motor pattern.
[0098] The intensity at which a selected motor pattern with a given
amplitude ratio and period ratio is run may be varied by varying
the average amplitude or varying the average period. Thus, in the
invention, when an in-situ gesture affects a sensor, the result can
be a switch to a different motor pattern, or it can be to vary the
overall amplitude or apparent speed within a given motor pattern.
In the preferred embodiment, motor patterns take the form of square
waves, but sine waves could also be used.
[0099] FIG. 9, for example, shows the result of sensing an in-situ
gesture that causes motors to shift from a motor pattern 900 with a
relatively high peak period to trough period ratio and shift to a
"lighter" motor pattern 601 characterized by a lower period ratio.
FIG. 10, for the sake of comparison, shows the result of sensing an
in-situ gesture that causes a motor pattern 1000 characterised by a
given period ratio to produce a "speed up" effect, such that in
another area of the graph 1001 the average period is reduced so
that peaks and troughs occur more quickly--but the motor pattern is
not changed.
[0100] FIG. 11 shows the result of sensing an in-situ gesture that
causes a change from a motor pattern 1100 with a relatively high
peak amplitude to trough amplitude ratio to a less heavy motor
pattern 1101 characterized by a smaller amplitude ratio. In this
example, the average amplitude does not change. FIG. 12, for the
sake of comparison, shows the result of sensing an in-situ gesture
that causes a motor pattern 1200 characterised by a given amplitude
ratio to diminish, such that in another area on the graph 1201 the
average amplitude is reduced but the motor pattern is not
changed.
[0101] FIG. 13 shows the result of sensing an in-situ gesture that
causes a change from a motor pattern 1300 with a relatively high
amplitude ratio to a less heavy motor pattern 1301 characterized by
a smaller amplitude ratio but running with an overall higher
average amplitude. FIG. 14, for the sake of comparison, shows the
result of sensing an in-situ gesture that causes a shift from a
motor pattern 1400 characterised by a given period ratio and
running at a relatively "slow" average period to a different motor
pattern 1401 with a higher period ratio that is also running at a
different, "faster" speed.
[0102] FIG. 15 is a graph showing gradually increasing motor
amplitude without altering amplitude ratio, associated with a
gradual increase in sensor output due to, for instance, increasing
degree of bend or increasing degree of stretch or increasing degree
of distance from distal end of an extremity.
[0103] Where the device features more than one motor, each may run
a separate motor pattern. A motor in the internal end of the device
is considered to be a rearward motor, and any motor in the staging
section or, further, the external end is considered to be a forward
motor. An in-situ gesture detected by a sensor can thus initiate a
panning effect, called here motor panning, front to back or back to
front, wherein the focus is increased in the forward motor and
diminished in the rearward motor, or the converse. This may be done
by switching one motor to a lighter motor pattern and the other
motor to a heavier motor pattern. Or, motor panning may be done by
increasing the average speed or amplitude of one motor and
decreasing the average speed or amplitude of the other.
[0104] In some embodiments, motor panning involves more than two
motors, such as where the highest motor focus pans from a motor in
the internal end of the device, to one in the staging section of
the device, to one in the external end of the device.
[0105] In the preferred embodiment, motor pattern, motor average
amplitude, motor average period, and motor panning are separately
controllable via varying in-situ gestures. However, simpler
embodiments may have pre-set combinations of motor pattern, motor
average amplitude, motor speed, and motor panning. Further, motor
patterns may be simplified by having pre-set absolute amplitudes
and periods, rather than being characterised by ratios. An
embodiment of the device with more than one motor will typically be
categorised as a shared toy and in-situ gestures associated will be
shared toy gestures.
Further Aspects of In-Situ Sensing of Shared Toy Gestures
[0106] In another aspect of the invention, the control circuit may
sense not just each in-situ gesture or shared toy gesture, but also
may change motor patterns based on the velocity of gesture. In such
cases, the control circuit uses the rate at which the resistance or
capacitance of a sensor changes to determine a change in motor
pattern.
[0107] Further, the frequency of in-situ gestures or shared toy
gestures can also be used by the control circuit to determine a
change in motor pattern. In an example illustrated via the graph of
FIG. 16, a repeated in-situ gesture is sensed by a bend sensor, at
a frequency given in gestures per second along the x-axis. An
indicated curve 1600 shows the overall amplitude of a light motor
pattern increasing as gesture frequency increases, beginning at a
minimum point at 1601. In another example, reaching a set gesture
frequency corresponds to an inflection point 1602 where the overall
motor amplitude curve resets and begins curving upwards 1603 but
with a heavier motor pattern, toward a maximum point at 1604.
[0108] FIG. 17 shows the converse of FIG. 16, in which an indicated
curve 1700 shows the overall amplitude of a motor pattern
decreasing from a minimum point at 1701 to an inflection point at
1702. After the inflection point at 1702, a second curve 1703 shows
the overall amplitude of a second motor pattern increasing to a
maximum at 1704. In this embodiment, overall motor amplitude is not
typically tied to gesture frequency, but to sensor voltage, as
indicated by the X axis. In this way, the inflection point comes at
the mid-point of activation of a sensor or array of sensors. This
three-position relationship between motor and sensor is further
explained below.
Three Position Sensing
[0109] FIG. 18A illustrates a bend sensor as it is maximally bent
while disposed longitudinally within the external end of an
embodiment of the device. The bend sensor 23 is connected with
control circuitry by a pair of electrical leads 24. In an
embodiment of the device which uses a three-position relationship
between motor and sensors, when the flexible housing within which
the bend sensor is bent beyond its resting shape, thus bending the
bend sensor beyond its resting shape, the overall amplitude of a
motor pattern is controlled. This sensor bending is thus correlated
with a first motor pattern amplitude curve, such as curve 1300 in
FIG. 13, or curve 1400 in FIG. 14. The maximum degree of bend which
the control circuit is configured to sense is correlated with a
start of an amplitude curve, as at point 1301 or 1401.
[0110] FIG. 18B portrays the bend sensor as it is at a rest shape,
partially bent, while disposed longitudinally within the external
end of an embodiment of the device. The sensor is at a rest shape,
partially bent, because the external end of the device has a curved
shape. This middle or rest position is correlated with the
inflection point 1302 on the graph of FIG. 13, or the inflection
point 1402 on the graph of FIG. 14.
[0111] FIG. 18C portrays the bend sensor in an unbent, or
straightened, shape, having been flexed from the partially bent
rest shape. This sensor bending is thus correlated with a second
motor pattern amplitude curve, such as curve 1303 in FIG. 13, or
curve 1403 in FIG. 14. The minimum degree of bend which the control
circuit is configured to sense is correlated with an end of an
amplitude curve, as at point 1304 or 1404. Note that, in some
embodiments, the bend sensor can measure bending in two directions,
in which case the inflection point of the motor pattern curve can
correspond to a different degree of bend sensor flex than that of
FIG. 18B.
[0112] FIGS. 19A, 19B and 19C illustrate the corresponding
three-position relationship between motor and sensor, for a stretch
sensor rather than a bend sensor.
[0113] In FIG. 19A, the stretch sensor is at the full stretch that
the control circuit is configured to measure, due to the flexible
housing within which it is disposed having been so stretched. This
sensor stretching is thus correlated with a first motor pattern
amplitude curve, such as curve 1600 in FIG. 16, or curve 1700 in
FIG. 17. The maximum degree of stretch which the control circuit is
configured to sense is correlated with a start of an amplitude
curve, as at point 1601 or 1701.
[0114] In FIG. 19B, the stretch sensor is at a rest shape,
partially stretched, while disposed longitudinally within the
external end of an embodiment of the device. The sensor is at a
rest shape, partially stretched, because the flexible external end
of the device may be either compressed or elongated from its rest
shape. This middle or rest position is correlated with the
inflection point 1602 on the graph of FIG. 16, or the inflection
point 1702 on the graph of FIG. 17.
[0115] In FIG. 19C, the stretch sensor is at the minimum stretch
that the control circuit is configured to measure, due to the
flexible housing within which it is disposed having been so
compressed. This disposition is analogous to the minimally bent
shape of the bend sensor illustrated in FIG. 18C, and corresponds
to the motor pattern graphs of FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 in the same
manner.
[0116] Analogous methods of controlling a vibrator motor along an
amplitude curve through an inflection point as described above in
regard to FIG. 16 through FIG. 19 may also be applied to other
types of sensors. For example, a squeeze or clench sensor disposed
within the flexible housing could control a motor through two motor
patterns, with the inflection point of the amplitude curve at
partial clench of the sensor. The clench sensor can be of the
pressure bulb type or one utilizing paired bend sensors. Further, a
linear array of pressure or light sensors or other point sensors
along the length of one end of the device could control a motor
through two motor patterns, with the inflection point of the
amplitude curve at the middle sensor of the array.
[0117] FIG. 20 is a table illustrating how motor patterns, motor
panning, motor amplitude and motor period can be variously
controlled in response to multiple sensors in an embodiment of the
device. In the illustrated embodiment, the device employs a clench
sensor, a stretch sensor as illustrated by FIG. 19 and a bend
sensor as illustrated by FIG. 18, a linear array of pressure or
light sensors along the external end of the device as illustrated
in FIG. 4 by sensors 15 and 17, and a sensor disposed adjacent to
the public bone of the user as illustrated by sensor 14 of FIG. 4.
Sensor output control signals from these sensors are used to
determine the control of a forward motor and a rearward motor.
[0118] The gestures recognized are listed in the first column of
the table. The bend gesture, illustrated by FIG. 18A, causes motor
amplitude panning by increasing rearward motor amplitude and
decreasing the forward motor amplitude, keeping peak and trough
amplitude ratios the same. Further, this gesture causes motor speed
panning, increasing perceived forward motor speed (by decreasing
both peak and trough periods), keeping peak and trough period
ratios the same, and decreasing perceived rearward motor speed (by
increasing both peak and trough periods).
[0119] The straighten gesture, the converse of the bend gesture,
illustrated by FIG. 18C, causes motor amplitude panning converse to
that of the bend gesture by decreasing rearward motor amplitude and
increasing the forward motor amplitude, keeping peak and trough
amplitude ratios the same. Further, this gesture causes motor speed
panning, decreasing perceived forward motor speed (by increasing
both peak and trough periods), keeping peak and trough period
ratios the same, and increasing perceived rearward motor speed (by
decreasing both peak and trough periods).
[0120] The third gesture in the table of FIG. 20, stretch, is a
slight lengthening of the external end of the device, along that
extremity's proximo-distal axis, registered by a stretch sensor
disposed parallel to said proximo-distal axis, as illustrated by
FIG. 19A. As indicated by the rightmost two columns of the table,
this gesture causes an overall decrease in amplitudes of both
motors and an overall increase in the perceived speeds of both
motors by decreasing both peak and trough periods.
[0121] The fourth gesture in the table of FIG. 20, compress, is a
shortening of the flexible external end of the device, along that
extremity's proximo-distal axis, registered by a stretch sensor
disposed parallel to said proximo-distal axis, as illustrated by
FIG. 19C. As indicated by the rightmost two columns of the table,
this gesture causes an overall increase in amplitudes of both
motors and an overall decrease in the perceived speeds of both
motors by increasing both peak and trough periods.
[0122] The fifth gesture in the table of FIG. 20, grasp-far, refers
to a touch or grasp of the external end of the device more than
half-way distant from the staging section, as would be registered
by a pressure, light, clench or similar sensor disposed in the
external end of the device in a linear array, as illustrated by
sensor 17 of FIG. 4. As indicated by the leftmost four columns of
the table, sensing this gesture sets the device to run motor
patterns in the forward and rearward motors. As indicated, the
forward motor amplitude ratio (peak/trough) is set to 10/1 and
period ratio set to 2/1. The rearward motor amplitude ratio is set
to 2/1 and period ratio set to 2/1.
[0123] The sixth gesture in the table of FIG. 20, grasp-near,
refers to a touch or grasp of the external end of the device less
than half-way distant from the staging section, as would be
registered by a pressure, light, clench or similar sensor disposed
in the external end of the device in a linear array, as illustrated
by sensor 15 of FIG. 4. As indicated, sensing this gesture results
in the forward motor amplitude ratio being set to 2/1 and period
ratio set to 2/1. The rearward motor amplitude ratio is set to 10/1
and period ratio set to 2/1.
[0124] The seventh gesture in the table of FIG. 20, hip-press,
refers to sensing by the hip-press sensor illustrated by sensor 13
of FIG. 4. As indicated, sensing this gesture results in the
forward motor amplitude ratio being set to 6/1 and period ratio set
to 4/1. The rearward motor amplitude ratio is set to 8/1 and period
ratio set to 3/1.
[0125] The eighth gesture in the table of FIG. 20, clench, refers
to sensing by a clench sensor situated in either the external or
internal end of the device. As indicated, sensing this gesture
results in the forward motor amplitude ratio being set to 8/1 and
period ratio set to 3/1. The rearward motor amplitude ratio is set
to 6/1 and period ratio set to 4/1.
[0126] The ninth gesture in the table of FIG. 20, unclench, refers
to none of the motor pattern setting gestures (fifth through ninth)
being sensed. As indicated, this defaults to the forward motor
amplitude ratio being set to 2/1 and period ratio set to 4/1. The
rearward motor amplitude ratio is set to 2/1 and period ratio set
to 4/1.
[0127] Motor patterns are discrete. Gestures listed later in the
table take priority over gestures listed earlier in the table for
setting motor patterns. Different embodiments may match gestures
with motor responses differently.
Multiple-Frequency Sensing
[0128] FIG. 21 (Prior Art) is a voltage over frequency graph
showing example multiple-frequency sensing response curves for
various touches as sensed using multiple-frequency capacitive
sensing. Whereas the bend, strain and other types of sensors
disclosed above output only a single response variable, such as DC
voltage or phase, multiple-frequency capacitive touch sensing uses
AC signals at a broad spectrum of frequencies across a conductive
object, or an object embedded with an electrode, to sense
gestures.
[0129] In the typical use of capacitive sensing, familiar to most
from touch-screen smartphones, a conductive object is excited by an
electrical signal at a set frequency. The sensing circuit monitors
the return signal and finds touch events by recognizing changes in
the signal caused due to the capacitance of the human body touching
the object. In multiple-frequency capacitive sensing, a range of
frequencies is monitored for responses to capacitive human touch.
Two different monitored objects respond differently to touches
across the monitored frequencies, and a monitored object responds
differently to different touches. Thus, not only can a touch event
be detected, but the way in which the touch occurs--hand and body
arrangements, the location of the touch on an object--can be
determined via comparison of known sets of frequency response data
points to the monitored changes. Further, multiple-frequency
capacitive sensing is capable of accurate response in the humid
circumstances of the human body.
[0130] Multiple-frequency capacitive sensing requires a sensing
circuit capable of generating and rapidly analyzing the range of
signal frequencies, and an electrode to carry those frequencies
embedded in the touch object. One approach to generating said range
of frequencies is to produce a sinusoidal signal encompassing the
desired frequencies. An example of a commercially available
integrated circuit capable of generating a such a wave is the
AD9833BRMZ Prog Waveform Gen IC built by Analog Devices. In some
cases, it is desirable to use a less expensive integrated circuit
that produces a noisier square wave, such as the more common
ATmega128 built by Atmel. In these cases, it is necessary to
include an LC noise-filtering circuit in the signal return path.
Further discussion of multiple-frequency capacitive sensing can be
found in the paper by Sato, M., Poupyrev, I, and Harrison, C.
Touche, "Enhancing Touch Interaction on Humans, Screens, Liquids,
and Everyday Objects" presented at the ACM SIGCHI Conference on
Human Factors in Computing Systems, May 5-10, 2012, located at
www.disneyresearch.com/wp-content/uploads/touchechi2012.pdf
[0131] The frequency response curve for a particular touch will be
different for each different object, depending on shapes and
materials. FIG. 21 illustrates example response curves. Curve 2100
of FIG. 21 illustrates example responses across monitored
frequencies for a one-finger touch of a hypothetical object
embedded with a sensing electrode. Curve 2101 illustrates example
responses across monitored frequencies for a touch by two separated
fingers of the same object. Curve 2102 illustrates example
responses for the same two-fingered touch of a different object, of
different shape or composition, embedded with a sensing
electrode.
Multiple-Frequency Sensing of Shared Toy Gestures
[0132] In one novel aspect of the invention, multiple-frequency
touch sensing is used to sense in-situ gestures generally, and
shared toy gestures more particularly, of the user or an additional
user touching the external end, internal end, or staging section of
the device. FIG. 22 illustrates an embodiment of the invention
wherein a first multiple-frequency touch sensing electrode 2200 is
embedded in the internal end 2 of the device 1 and a second
multiple-frequency touch sensing electrode 2201 is embedded in the
external end 3 of the device 1.
[0133] First electrode 2200 is connected to control circuit 7 by
electrical lead 2202. Second electrode 2201 is connected to control
circuit 7 by electrical lead 2203.
[0134] Control circuit 7 sends through each electrode an electrode
output signal that sweeps through a range of frequencies and
receives a multiple-frequency electrode return signal. For each
gesture recognized by the device, a multiple-frequency sensing
profile is stored in memory on the control circuit 7. The control
circuit 7 recognizes shared toy gestures, and similar in-situ
gestures, performed against portions of the device 1 containing
electrodes as closely matching these multiple-frequency sensing
profiles. Using this recognition as well as other sensor
information such as bend and stretch sensor inputs, frequency of
gestures sensed, and patterns and combinations of gestures sensed,
the control circuit 7 initiates changes to motor patterns, as
discussed above.
[0135] In this manner, the user or users need not choose a
particular motor pattern or intensity, but, rather, has the device
1 respond naturally to in-situ gestures. In the pictured
embodiment, the control circuit 7 controls motor 9, in the internal
end 2, via lead 10 and motor 11, in the staging section 4, via lead
12.
[0136] FIG. 23 illustrates embodiments placing an electrode in a
dorsal or ventral location in the external end 3 of the device 1.
Electrode in the dorsal position 2300 is connected to the control
circuit 7 via lead 2301. Electrode 2302 in the ventral position is
connected to the control circuit 7 via lead 2303. Electrodes are
embedded in the flexible material of the device's housing just
under the dorsal surface of the external end 3, in order to
maximize electrode sensitivity.
Shared Toy Gestures
[0137] In addition to the gestures disclosed above in regard to
bend, stretch and similar sensors, the following shared toy
gestures are disclosed as being detectable in the device using
multiple-frequency sensing and associated with controlling the
device's motors in selected patterns and varying the intensity
within a motor pattern.
[0138] FIG. 24 illustrates a basic one-finger touch gesture. A
stylized representation of a hand 2400 is touching the external end
3 of the device 1 with one finger. Because the external end 3 is
embedded with a multiple-frequency sensing electrode 2201, a
multiple-frequency return control signal is sent to the control
circuit 7, which recognizes the sensor control signal as being most
similar to the multiple-frequency sensing profile associated with
this gesture in a device of this shape. This in-situ gesture
recognition, along with recognition of prior and concurrent
gestures, is used to determine a motor pattern for one or more
motors in the device 1.
[0139] Separate gestures can be recognized for a basic touch by
two, three or more fingers, or even an elbow. Each separate gesture
recognition can be so used in determining motor patterns. As an
example, FIG. 25 illustrates a static two-finger pinch gesture,
being performed by a stylized hand 2500, that can be so recognized
by the device 1.
[0140] FIG. 26 is a stylized illustration of a hand 2600 performing
a one-fingered draw toward gesture, dragging away from the distal
end of the external end 3 and toward the proximal end.
[0141] FIG. 27 is a stylized illustration of a hand 2700 performing
a one-fingered draw away gesture, dragging toward the distal end of
the external end 3 and away from the proximal end.
[0142] FIG. 28 illustrates an embodiment in which the device 1
senses a gesture here called encircle far. External end 3 of the
device 1 is assumed to be substantially cylindrical, phallic or in
the shape of a curved cylinder, such that a normal adult human hand
can encircle the external end 3 using a thumb and finger.
[0143] A stylized illustration of a finger 2800 and thumb 2801 are
shown encircling the external end 3 of the device 1 at the far end
of the external end 3 more than two-thirds distant from the staging
section 4. Depending on the embodiment, sensing encircle far can be
associated with any motor effect, but in the preferred embodiment,
sensing encircle far is associated with a light motor pattern and
with varying the intensity of a forward motor.
[0144] While encircle far is first described here as being
performed by a finger and thumb of a first user or a second user,
it is important to note that encircle far and all other encircle
gestures described below can also be performed by the mouth or
orifice of the user or a second user. The multiple-frequency return
control signal will vary depending on which area of the body is
used to perform an encircle gesture, so several different one
multiple-frequency sensing profiles can be associated with a given
gesture, but the associated motor patterns remain consistent to the
sensed gesture.
[0145] FIG. 29 illustrates sensing an in-situ gesture called
encircle drag toward, in which the encircling gesture is dragged
toward the staging section 4. Depending on the embodiment, sensing
encircle drag toward can be associated with any motor effect, but,
in the preferred embodiment, sensing encircle drag toward is
associated with increasing the intensity of a motor pattern and
with rearward motor panning. Encircle drag toward arrives at the
encircle near gesture.
[0146] The converse of encircle far, called encircle near, is
illustrated by FIG. 30, in which a stylized illustration of a
finger 2800 and thumb 2801 are shown encircling the external end 3
of the device 1 at the near end of the external end 3 less than
one-third distant from the staging section 4. In the preferred
embodiment, sensing encircle near is associated with a heavy motor
pattern and with varying the intensity of a rearward motor.
[0147] FIG. 31 illustrates sensing a gesture called encircle drag
away, in which the encircling gesture is dragged away from the
staging section 4 and terminates, if taken to its conclusion, in
encircle far. In the preferred embodiment, sensing encircle drag
away is associated with decreasing the intensity of a motor and
with motor panning toward the fore of the device 1.
[0148] FIG. 32 illustrates sensing an gesture called double
encircle far. A stylized illustration of a finger 2800 and thumb
2801 of a user or a second user are shown encircling the external
end 3 of the device 1 at the far end of the external end 3 more
than two-thirds distant from the staging section 4. A stylized
illustration of a second set of finger 3200 and thumb 3201 of a
user or a second user are shown encircling the external end 3 of
the device 1 adjacent to the first finger and thumb encirclement.
In the preferred embodiment, sensing double encircle far is
associated with varying the intensity of a forward motor and with a
motor pattern heavier than the motor pattern associated with
encircle far.
[0149] FIG. 33 illustrates sensing a gesture called double encircle
drag toward, in which the rearward finger 3200 and thumb 3201
performing the encircling gesture are dragged toward the staging
section 4. In the preferred embodiment, sensing double encircle
drag toward is associated with increasing the intensity of a motor,
with rearward motor panning and with a heavier motor pattern in a
forward motor than is associated with encircle drag toward. Double
encircle drag toward arrives &t the split encircle gesture.
[0150] FIG. 34 illustrates sensing a gesture called split encircle.
A stylized illustration of a finger 2800 and thumb 2801 of a user
or a second user are shown encircling the external end 3 of the
device 1 at the far end of the external end 3 more than two-thirds
distant from the staging section 4. A stylized illustration of a
second set of finger 3200 and thumb 3201 of a user or a second user
are shown encircling the external end 3 of the device 1 less than
one-third distant from the staging section. In the preferred
embodiment, sensing split encircle is associated with varying the
intensity of one or both of a forward motor and a rearward motor,
and with setting a forward and rearward motor to the same motor
pattern.
[0151] FIG. 35 illustrates sensing a gesture called split encircle
drag toward, in which the rearward finger 2800 and thumb 2801
performing the split encircle gesture are dragged toward the
staging section 4. In the preferred embodiment, sensing split
encircle drag toward is associated with increasing the intensity of
a motor, with rearward motor panning and with a heavier motor
pattern in a rearward motor than is associated with encircle drag
toward. Split encircle drag toward arrives at the double encircle
near gesture.
[0152] The converse of double encircle far, called double encircle
near, is illustrated by FIG. 36, in which a stylized illustration
of a finger 2800 and thumb 2801 of a user or a second user are
shown encircling the external end 3 of the device 1, adjacent with
a second set of finger 3200 and thumb 3201 of a user or a second
user. In the preferred embodiment, sensing double encircle near is
associated with a heavy motor pattern, with varying the intensity
of a rearward motor and with a heavier motor pattern in a rearward
motor than is associated with encircle near.
[0153] FIG. 37 illustrates sensing a gesture called double encircle
drag away, in which the forward finger 2800 and thumb 2801
performing the encircling gesture are dragged away from the staging
section 4. In the preferred embodiment, sensing double encircle
drag away is associated with decreasing the intensity of a motor,
with forward motor panning and with a heavier motor pattern in a
rearward motor than is associated with encircle drag away. Double
encircle drag away arrives at the split encircle gesture.
[0154] FIG. 38 illustrates sensing a gesture called split encircle
drag away, in which the rearward finger 3200 and thumb 3201
performing the split encircle gesture are dragged away from the
staging section 4. In the preferred embodiment, sensing split
encircle drag toward is associated with decreasing the intensity of
a motor, with forward motor panning and with a heavier motor
pattern in a forward motor than is associated with encircle drag
away.
[0155] FIG. 39 is a table illustrating how motor patterns, motor
panning, motor amplitude and motor period can be variously
controlled in response to multiple-frequency sensing in an
embodiment of the device. In the illustrated embodiment, the device
employs a multiple-frequency sensing electrode and a bend sensor as
illustrated by FIG. 15. Signals from these sensors cause the
control circuit to control a forward motor and a rearward
motor.
[0156] The gestures recognized via the multiple-frequency sensing
electrode are listed in the first column of the table. Concurrently
with each such listed gesture is the possibility of sensing bending
or straightening of the bend sensor. Generally, here, static grasp
gestures select a motor pattern, and dragging or bending are
reacted to by the control circuit varying motor speeds or
amplitudes, as indicated.
[0157] As indicated by the second through fifth columns of the
table, sensing the encircle far gesture sets the device to run
motor patterns in the forward and rearward motors. As indicated,
the forward motor amplitude ratio (peak/trough) is set to 8/1 and
period ratio set to 1/2. The rearward motor amplitude ratio is set
to 4/1 and period ratio set to 1/2. Sensing a concurrent bend
gesture causes both motor amplitudes to increase and speeds to
decrease by lengthening peak and trough periods. Conversely,
sensing a concurrent straighten gesture causes both motor
amplitudes to decrease and speeds to increase by shortening peak
and trough periods.
[0158] The next gesture, encircle drag toward, retains the motor
patterns of the encircle far gesture until the encircle near
gesture (or some other static gesture) is sensed. As the sixth
column of the table indicates, the dragging portion of the gesture
causes rearward motor panning, such that the rearward motor speed
and amplitude increase while the forward motor speed and amplitude
decrease with further dragging toward.
[0159] The third gesture, encircle near, sets the forward motor
amplitude ratio to 4/1 and period ratio to 1/1. The rearward motor
amplitude ratio is set to 8/1 and period ratio set to 1/1. Sensing
a concurrent bend gesture causes both motor amplitudes to increase
and speeds to decrease by lengthening peak and trough periods.
Conversely, sensing a concurrent straighten gesture causes both
motor amplitudes to decrease and speeds to increase by shortening
peak and trough periods.
[0160] The fourth gesture, encircle drag away, retains the motor
patterns of the encircle near gesture until the encircle far
gesture (or some other static gesture) is sensed. The dragging
portion of the gesture causes forward motor panning, such that the
forward motor speed and amplitude increase while the rearward motor
speed and amplitude decrease with further dragging away.
[0161] The fifth gesture, double encircle far, sets the forward
motor amplitude ratio to 10/1, and period ratio to 2/1. The
rearward motor amplitude ratio is set to 2/1 and period ratio set
to 2/1. Sensing a concurrent bend gesture causes both motor
amplitudes to decrease and speeds to increase by shortening peak
and trough periods. Conversely, sensing a concurrent straighten
gesture causes both motor amplitudes to increase and speeds to
decrease by lengthening peak and trough periods.
[0162] The sixth gesture, double encircle drag toward, retains the
motor patterns of the double encircle far gesture until the
encircle far gesture (or some other static gesture) is sensed. The
dragging portion of the gesture causes rearward motor amplitude
panning.
[0163] The seventh gesture, split encircle, sets the forward motor
amplitude ratio to 6/1 and period ratio to 3/1. The rearward motor
amplitude ratio is set to 6/1 and period ratio set to 3/1. Sensing
a concurrent bend gesture causes forward motor amplitude panning.
Sensing a concurrent straighten gesture causes rearward motor
amplitude panning.
[0164] The eighth gesture, split encircle drag toward, retains the
motor patterns of the split encircle gesture until the encircle far
gesture (or some other static gesture) is sensed. The dragging
portion of the gesture causes rearward motor speed panning.
[0165] The ninth gesture, double encircle near, sets the forward
motor amplitude ratio to 2/1 and period ratio to 4/1. The rearward
motor amplitude ratio is set to 10/1 and period ratio set to 4/1.
Sensing a concurrent bend gesture causes both motor amplitudes to
decrease and speeds to increase by shortening peak and trough
periods. Conversely, sensing a concurrent straighten gesture causes
both motor amplitudes to increase and speeds to decrease by
lengthening peak and trough periods.
[0166] The tenth gesture, double encircle drag away, retains the
motor patterns of the double encircle near gesture until the split
encircle far gesture (or some other static, gesture) is sensed. The
dragging portion of the gesture causes forward motor amplitude
panning.
[0167] The eleventh gesture, split encircle drag away, retains the
motor patterns of the split encircle gesture until the double
encircle far gesture (or some other static gesture) is sensed. The
dragging portion of the gesture causes forward motor speed
panning.
[0168] Sensing no gesture defaults to forward and rear motor
amplitude ratios of 1.5/1 and period ratios of 1/1.
[0169] Motor patterns are discrete. Different embodiments may match
gestures with motor responses differently and may also combine with
other sensors and gestures, such as those discussed in regard to
FIG. 20. The above shared toy gestures are illustrated as being
performed on the external end 3 of the device 1. Depending on the
shape of the housing of the device, said in-situ gestures can be
conceived of as being sensed by sensors in the internal end 2 or
staging section 4 of the device 1.
Materials and Construction
[0170] While invention is described as being constructed of the
typical silicone or a similar material, certain alternate materials
are disclosed here as modifications. First, as the invention may be
worn by a user, it is advantageous to reduce weight. Thus, a
modified design may call for a lighter weight battery, at the
expense of operating time. Additionally, a lighter weight flexible
material, such as foamed silicone, may replace some of the solid
silicone of the body. In such an embodiment, a foamed silicone core
is assembled with the circuitry, and then covered by an outer layer
of solid silicone.
[0171] Further, certain materials may be substituted to increase
electrode sensitivity. In one embodiment, the solid flexible
surface of the invention may have increased low-amperage
conductivity by using conductive graphite powder in the silicone
material, or by using conductive fluorosilicone. Alternately, the
electrodes may be made of said conductive silicone, or of graphene
rubber, allowing electrode placement at or near the surface of the
flexible invention body.
[0172] Thus, it is seen that the invention may be constructed by
first molding an inner core of flexible material, leaving cavities
for placement of batteries, control circuit and motors. Sensors and
electrodes may then be adhered to the inner core. An outer layer of
flexible material may then be molded over the inner layer, motors,
sensors, electrodes and circuitry. The molding of the outer layer
of flexible material leaves room for a removable fitted plug of
flexible material that covers access to batteries or recharging
port. Flexible electrodes may be adhered to the outer surface when
the outer layer is molded.
[0173] Although the present invention has been described in
connection with certain specific embodiments for instructional
purposes, the present invention is not limited thereto.
Accordingly, various modifications, adaptations, and combinations
of various features of the described embodiments can be practiced
without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in
the claims.
* * * * *
References